Thou mayst pass the time in discoursing on the vanities of the world, of
which I believe few are better qualified to speak understandingly than
thyself, or a few words of admonition to hold fast to the faith would come
with fitting weight from thy lips. But look to it, that none of thy flock
wander; for here must every creature of them remain, stationary as the
indiscreet partner of Lot, till I have cast an eye into all the cunning
places of their abode. So set wit at work, and show thy breeding as an
entertainer."
After this irreverent charge to his subordinate the speaker signified to
Content and his father, that he and his remaining attendant would proceed
to a more minute examination of the premises.
When Mark Heathcote saw that the man who had so rudely broken in upon the
peaceful habits of his family was ready to proceed, he advanced steadily
in his front, like one who boldly invited inquiry, and by a grave gesture
desired him to follow. The stranger, perhaps as much from habit as from
any settled design, first cast a free glance around at the bevy of
fluttered maidens, leered even upon the modest and meek-eyed Ruth herself,
and then took the direction indicated by him who had so unhesitatingly
assumed the office of a guide.
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